It’s funny, you know, I’ve been stewarding at wine shows for a couple of decades and pride myself on knowing a bit about the why and wherefore of wine. Then, along comes two wines which made me realise that maybe I’m lacking in many areas about wine.
These two lovely wines have proven to be a wakeup call for me. I knew about France having plenty of vineyards in and around different regions, however, it didn’t occur to me that such things like ‘Right Bank’ and ‘Left Bank’ were, or are, a thing. I have to say, this prompted me to put on my learning cap and delve into the Google-sphere to broaden my knowledge a whole lot more.
In my defence, I have always been a supporter of Australian wines for no other reason than I think there are many great winemakers producing great wine here in our own country. These two wines are evidence of that.
Region: Orange, NSW Price: $45 (each) Source: Samples thanks kindly to Stockman’s Ridge and Define Wine
2022 Right Bank
Youthful looking in the glass, youthful on the nose and youthful on the palate. Regardless of that, this is a lovely wine to drink already but it is certainly a keeper. A blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc, it is rich and elegant on the palate. Blackberries and plums provide the bulk of the fruit profile, there’s a blueberry softness at play too, a gentle herbal note to round things out while the tannis let you know they are there but are more than ably supported by the lush fruit. Very enjoyable indeed.
2022 Left Bank
What a terrific wine this Cabernet Sauvignon (60%) Merlot (40%) blend is! It feels so sleek and supple with the black fruit bonanza singing while it gracefully dances across the palate with ease. Blackberries, blackcurrants and plums wrap themselves around some herbs, a little mintiness and a nice savoury/spicy appeal making it thought provokingly complex, beautifully balanced and with great length to finish.
As I have previously stated, when it comes to having more than one wine to look at from the same producer, I am reluctant to pick a favourite. This one almost convinced me to change that thought.
Words from a Wine Glass 